Vintage Soviet Union ‘Winner of Socialist Competition’ Badge: Celebrate Exceptional Labor Achievements

Introducing the prestigious all-Union badge of honor, the “Winner of Socialist Competition”! 🏆

Established by a joint effort of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, the Council of Ministers of the USSR, the All-Union Central Council of Trade Unions, and the Central Committee of the All-Union Leninist Communist Youth League, this badge symbolizes exceptional achievements in socialist competition.

The iconic badge of 1973, authorized by Resolution No. 15 of January 5, 1973, was awarded to the best workers, collective farmers, managers, technical engineers, employees, craftsmen, and individuals from research, design, and other organizations who demonstrated outstanding labor performance in the All-Union Socialist Competition. Whether it was surpassing state plan targets or going above and beyond for the greater good, these exceptional individuals received this esteemed recognition.

The awarding process varied depending on the organizational structure. Employees of enterprises and organizations under union subordination were selected through a joint decision of the relevant ministry (department) and the Central Committee of the trade union. For those in union-republican and republican subordination, the selection process involved a joint decision of the ministry (department) of the union republic and the republican committee of the trade union or the council of trade unions. Workers from district, regional, or state farms and collective farms were chosen through a joint decision of the regional (territory) executive committee and the regional, regional trade union council.

The deserving recipients not only received the magnificent badge but were also presented with a standard certificate approved by the All-Russian Central Council of Trade Unions. To commemorate their achievement, an entry was made in their work book, ensuring their remarkable accomplishment was forever recognized.

The design of the badge evolved in 1976, while maintaining its distinctive style. Crafted in the shape of a gear, the badge proudly displays an unfurled banner at its center, boldly proclaiming “Winner of Socialist Competition.” Below the banner, on a distinguished blue background, the year of the badge’s award is prominently displayed. Suspended from a rectangular block, the badge is securely attached to clothing using a pin, allowing recipients to proudly showcase their remarkable achievement.

It’s important to note that the “Winner of Socialist Competition” badges from 1973 to 1980 hold an esteemed place in the list of departmental insignia in labor, granting recipients the honorable title of “Veteran of Labor.” The badges from 1973 to 1975 were meticulously crafted from aluminum, featuring a gear design with an unfurled banner at its center, encircled by a border of laurel leaves. The banner proudly states “Winner of Socialist Competition,” while ears of wheat and the iconic hammer and sickle symbol rest beneath. The year of the award is elegantly displayed above the banner.

Embrace the legacy of exceptional labor achievement with the prestigious “Winner of Socialist Competition” badge. It represents dedication, excellence, and the enduring spirit of the Soviet Union.